How Much Does It Cost to Replace A Phone Screen?

From their origins as luxury accessories to their current role as everyday essentials, smartphones have become an integral part of modern life. However, as we increasingly rely on these indispensable devices, it’s easy to overlook their vulnerabilities—especially the screens, which are particularly prone to damage.

According to telecommunications statistics, screen-related issues account for 56% of all smartphone repairs, making them by far the most common type of smartphone damage.

No matter how cautious you are or how robust your screen protectors and cases may be, your smartphone display remains susceptible to damage. So, how much does it cost to replace a phone screen in 2023, and what factors influence these prices?

Factors Affecting Screen Replacement Cost

Understanding the factors that contribute to the total expense of a screen replacement—and being aware of alternative repair options—will empower you to make informed decisions. By learning what affects screen repair costs, you can restore your smartphone to working condition in the most cost-effective way possible.

Screen Type

One of the primary factors impacting screen replacement cost is the type of display your smartphone uses. Some screen technologies are significantly more expensive to replace than others. Earlier smartphones typically featured LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panels, which require a backlight to illuminate the pixels.

Examples of devices with LCD screens include older iPhone models and the HTC Sensation. LCD screens are generally more affordable to replace, often costing as little as $60. Many entry-level smartphones continue to use LCD technology today to maintain lower retail prices.

At the higher end are OLED screens, regarded as the gold standard for smartphone displays. While alternatives like LG’s NanoCell aim to bridge the gap between traditional LED panels and costly OLEDs, such technologies are primarily reserved for televisions rather than phones.

OLED screens provide greater flexibility, reduced weight, and enhanced contrast and color accuracy. Unlike LCDs, each pixel in an OLED screen emits its own light, eliminating the need for a backlight and allowing for deeper blacks and more vibrant colors.

The difference between LCD and OLED technology is clearly reflected in repair costs. For example, according to Apple’s website, the screen repair cost for the iPhone X is $279, while the iPhone 11—which uses an LCD—costs $199 to repair. Although the iPhone 11 is a more recent model, its screen is $80 cheaper to replace, primarily because of its LCD panel versus the OLED used in the iPhone X.

Since Apple introduced OLED screens with the launch of the iPhone X in 2017, most major smartphone manufacturers have shifted their flagship devices to OLED. Although OLED displays bring significant benefits, replacing them is much more costly—sometimes approaching the price of the entire device.

Screen Damage Severity

Another significant factor influencing screen replacement cost is the extent of the damage. Contrary to popular belief, a smartphone screen is not just a sheet of glass; rather, it comprises several layers, each with specific roles and complexities.

Typically, a smartphone screen consists of four layers: the top glass layer, an air or gas layer, a touch-sensitive electrical layer, and an adhesive glass layer. The cost to repair your device will depend on which layers have been affected. If the damage is minor—such as a small crack limited to the top glass layer—repair costs are relatively low, usually between $20 and $50, as the underlying electronics remain functional.

If you notice additional issues, such as discolored spots, blurry screen sections, loss of touch sensitivity, or a completely black screen—common signs of a damaged LCD—the underlying display has likely been compromised. Repairs for this type of damage can cost upwards of $300 because they typically require a full screen replacement.

Smartphone Brand

Each smartphone manufacturer implements its own design and repair protocols, and this variation directly affects screen replacement costs. Models from leading brands like Apple and Samsung tend to be the most expensive to repair, particularly for newer generations of their devices.

Average iPhone Screen Repair Costs

iPhones are known for their high price point and correspondingly expensive repairs. Generally, the newer the model, the higher the screen replacement cost. The table below presents estimated screen replacement prices directly from Apple.

As illustrated above, Apple’s screen repair costs range from $149 to $379, with newer models usually being the most expensive. For the latest devices, the cost of a screen replacement can represent more than a third of the price of a brand-new phone.

Average Samsung Phone Screen Replacement Costs

Samsung smartphones can also be costly to repair, particularly newer or premium models. Unlike Apple, Samsung often differentiates between inner and outer screen replacement costs, especially for foldable devices. Third-party repair companies do offer services for Samsung phones, but these prices are typically high—sometimes approaching the resale value of the phone itself.

The following table shows average screen module replacement costs. This service, offered directly by Samsung, includes not only the screen replacement but also the bezel (metal frame) and battery.

Samsung also offers the option to replace only the front glass. This service can be up to $100 less expensive than a full display replacement but is only appropriate if damage is superficial and does not affect the underlying screen layers.

Smartphone Model and Age

The model and age of a smartphone also significantly influence repair costs. Older models are typically smaller and use less advanced technologies, resulting in lower repair expenses. As manufacturers introduce new features and cutting-edge materials, the complexity and cost of repairs can increase.

Producing advanced features such as curved screens, foldable phones, and Gorilla Glass protection involves higher manufacturing expenses, which are reflected in repair costs. These enhancements add value but also make replacement parts more expensive.

Smartphone size is another evolving aspect that impacts repair prices. When the first iPhone launched in 2007, it had a 3.5-inch display. Today, most smartphones have screen sizes ranging from 6.2 to 7 inches. As the display area grows, so too does the cost of replacement due to increased material and labor requirements.

However, not all newer phones necessarily incur higher repair costs. For example, the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus feature a new design with a separate glass back, which actually simplifies screen repairs. In these models, repair costs are often under $200, whereas the iPhone 14 Pro Max can cost more than $500 for a screen replacement due to its more complex construction.

Manufacturer Warranties

Many smartphone manufacturers now offer premium protection plans that provide extended coverage at lower costs than standard out-of-warranty repairs. These plans operate similarly to insurance for your device and are issued directly by the manufacturer. Examples include AppleCare+ and Samsung Care+. Enrolling in such plans can be a wise investment, as they substantially reduce out-of-pocket repair expenses.

Participating in these protection programs helps alleviate the financial stress of accidental damage. For example, AppleCare+ has included “unlimited incidents of accidental damage protection” since 2022, letting customers access screen or back glass repairs for a nominal fee of $29 plus tax per incident. This allows for frequent, cost-effective repairs directly from authorized Apple service centers.

Similarly, Samsung Care+ offers cracked screen repairs for a reduced fee, currently just $29, making premium device maintenance more accessible and affordable.